Big Hair Envy

Oyster Festival Rewind - Friday

2009-11-15T13:59:00.000-05:00

Mullets. Bands. Bike Cops. Firemen's Parade. Cowboy Hats. Laughter. Bloggers. Little Miss Spat. Meat Wagon. Oysters. Family. Friends. Wine. Red Boots.

Firemen's Parade

Notice the porta-potties (on the right) and the moon (top left).

Sirens. WHAT?

One of my favorite places to visit!

~~Meat Wagon~~ Cupholder.

The beginning of a fun-filled weekend ~~of women behaving badly~~ !

Kindness

2009-11-12T15:27:00.000-05:00

It's dark when I get up in the morning, and it's dark when I get home from work. It's been raining for two days, and all signs point to two more days of the blasted stuff. Along with flooding, downed trees and possible loss of power. The beautiful weather we experienced last weekend is a distant memory.

My cat is in a state of weather denial. She's a "stick your head in the sand" kind of gal!!

I'm fortunate to have some amazing friends whose random acts of kindness always get me through the storms. Krissa over at Halfasstic sent me this cute wall hanging. I'd better stock up on Aqua Net and buy a new teasing comb!!

Another friend stopped by the office today and brought this homemade apple pie. I'm going to stop on the way home and pick up some vanilla ice cream to go along with it. Jealous?

I am very thankful for the kindness of friends. They always seem to be there when you need them most.

My Favorite Veteran

2009-11-11T09:39:00.007-05:00

Photo borrowed from this site.

I call him every year to wish him a Happy Veteran's Day. This year, I decided to thank him publicly.

"Grandaddy" , thank you for serving our country in Vietnam. I cannot imagine the horrors you must have endured.

You are my hero!

Oyster Festival

2009-11-06T10:04:00.012-05:00

Picture borrowed from this site.

It's hard to believe it's been a whole year since I posted this, this, this and this about the Urbanna Oyster Festival. Where does the time go?

Well, believe it or not, it's that time again. I'm confident that I will return with a weeks worth of posts that are sure to make you laugh! Go over to Chesapeake Bay Woman's site to find out who is attending this year......you may know some of those crazy ladies;) My family will also be there in full force. They ALWAYS make me laugh......in a good way, of course!

As usual, I am rushing to try to get everything done before I have to leave. I still need to finish laundry, pack, get a cooler together and dig out lawn chairs and gloves. Did I mention that I'm at work right now? Nothing like waiting until the last minute...GAH!

Have a good weekend, and enjoy the eye candy I'm sending your way today;)

Vote

2009-11-03T12:14:00.003-05:00

Get out there and VOTE!

Birds Of A Feather...Or Not

2009-11-02T10:09:00.000-05:00

For a couple of weeks now, Cool Breeze has been telling me that there is an albino turkey living in our woods. I got my first glimpse Saturday morning. It's always exciting to see a large group of turkeys in the field, but the albino added a whole new dimension. A bright spot in an otherwise dreary weekend.

What was the bright spot in YOUR weekend?

Halloween Greetings

2009-10-30T14:56:00.003-04:00

Have a safe and happy Halloween weekend!

Adventures In Chocolate

2009-10-27T12:19:00.000-04:00

Cool Breeze and I have been discussing the fact that our daughter will be attending college in less than a year. We are painfully aware that there has not been nearly enough money set aside for the next phase of Snow White's life. The money tree out back died, and I had to come up with another way to boost the college fund. Enter Grandma J!

Grandma J hosted a giveaway on her blog. The prize? Dove Chocolate. Somewhere in the post, she mentioned that her daughter was a Chocolatier with Dove Chocolate Discoveries. She hosts chocolate tasting parties, and sells Dove products that are only available through these parties. Having been in direct sales before, I recognized a great opportunity when I saw it!

After several weeks of researching the company, trying to decide if I wanted to get back into direct sales or not and discussing the business opportunity with Cool Breeze, I signed up. The products had gotten a big "thumbs up" from Noe Noe Girl, whose husband was the prize winner, and I couldn't imagine a more FUN line of items to market!

Actually, the word "FUN" does not even begin to describe it. Once I received my kit, I started melting, dipping, tasting and creating! My whole family has gotten in on the act. In fact, I had my first tasting party over the weekend, and I couldn't have done it all without Cool Breeze and Snow White. They are my taste-testers, helpers and providers of support:)

I'm not sure where this new road will lead, but I'm looking forward to the journey.

Chocolate, anyone?

State Fair

2009-10-23T11:41:00.000-04:00

The Virginia State Fair is VERY popular with the Envy Family. Snow White was a mere seven months old when she attended her first fair. She won a prize for being the best "Pig Rooter" at the Pig Races, and has been hooked ever since!

2009 brought big changes to our beloved fair. A new venue, a new layout, and many new fried foods!

Meadow Farm, former home of Triple Crown Winner Secretariat, is now Meadow Farm Event Park. The new venue is spacious and CLEAN! Well, except for some of the folks working the Midway.

Main Stage entertainment included Blue Grass, Magic and a little Rock 'n Roll.

Secretariat was honored throughout the park, especially in the Farm Area.

These little guys were SO much fun to watch!

No State Fair would be complete without freakishly large fruits and vegetables.

Snow White has ALWAYS loved this singing pig! He appeared to be happy to see her again this year;)

These guys were downright CRAZY!

I found this amusing. Draw your own conclusions.

Billy Goats Gruff? He stood so still that we weren't sure he was real. Then he jumped down and started bossing the other goats around!

I was having an off night, and LOST at Whac-a-Mole. First time EVER!

The night wouldn't have been complete without a trip to our favorite food vendor....Porky's! This is a BBQ Parfait....BBQ, Sauce and Mashed Potatoes. YUM:)

And for dessert? Fried green beans, of course.

Can't wait until next year!

Homecoming '09

2009-10-06T13:53:00.000-04:00

The Homecoming festivities were held at Small Town USA High School this past weekend. Although we lost the football game, Snow White (far right) and her friends never let their school spirit wane.

The night of the dance, SW and her friends posed for a few photos before heading out to meet their dates. They take Homecoming VERY seriously in these parts!

There is always one mom in every crowd who can rally the teenagers long enough to snap a few group shots. Thank goodness for those moms! I had a hard enough time getting SW corralled for the couples shots:/

**sigh** SO beautiful!

There's nothing better than kids in dress up clothes:)

It made me sad to think that this was the last high school Homecoming that my daughter would attend. However, I felt much better when I realized that no matter how old she gets, she will still love her Mama!!

Monday Funny

2009-10-05T10:30:00.002-04:00

Happy Monday!

I received this via email, and have no idea who to credit for its origin.

"Crusty" Sighting

2009-10-01T12:23:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, my family attended the State Fair of Virginia. I am working on a couple of posts that highlight the event, but wanted to let you all know that "Crusty" was in attendance as well. Grandma J neglected to tell me that "Crusty" would be making the trip, but I was happy to see him! He's SUCH a jet setter! Evidently, he was glad to be back in Virginia for a visit, but was excited about heading back home to the Great State of Texas! We chatted for a few minutes, and then parted ways. I was heading off to play Whac-a-Mole, and he needed to get back to his supervisory duties at the seafood booth.

"Crusty" told me to be sure to say hello to his beloved Blog Fest friends! He can't wait to see all of you again;)

"Don't Judge My Hair"

2009-09-23T17:19:00.000-04:00

Photo provided by Wilma at Little Toes and Cheerios

I received an email yesterday that contained a link to THIS SITE. It is absolutely HYSTERICAL! I'm still not sure why it was sent to ME...;)

We all need to pull out those '80's photos and send them in. Go ahead. You know you want to!

Wilma....if you don't submit these pics, I will be forced to do it for you! I'm REALLY curious to see what sort of caption they come up with!!!

Head Count

2009-09-21T16:13:00.005-04:00

Photo borrowed from this site.

Alright. It's time to commit. One way, or the other. Are you coming to the Urbanna Oyster Festival?

Chesapeake Bay Woman and I need to get an accurate head count so the planning can continue. Or, possibly, begin;) If you've never been, you are in for a real treat! You'll want to plan to arrive Friday afternoon so you don't miss the Fireman's Parade Friday night. For me, that's one of the highlights! There will also be a fantastic band playing after the parade....BONUS!

The little water town will be buzzing with activity Saturday as well. Something for everyone!

Click HERE to read all about it!

Hope to see you in November:)

Compliments

2009-09-16T13:06:00.004-04:00

Image borrowed from HERE

I have grown tired of the negativity and lack of couth that seem to be more the norm than the exception these days. I'm going to list ten compliments, and I want you to USE THEM. Compliment your neighbor, your hairdresser, the bum on the corner, or yourself. I don't care HOW you use them, just USE them!! Consider this MY small effort to restore decorum and civility to this crazy world. Or, just consider me crazy!!

1. I knew I could count on you!

2. Have you lost weight?

3. I LOVE your shoes!

4. I'm glad you're my friend:)

5. You are one of the smartest/ most talented women I know!

6. You deserve it!

7. Life certainly is agreeing with you!

8. That sweater is the perfect color for you!

9. You have excellent taste!

10. You always know just the right thing to say:)

Now, GET OUT THERE and let's spread a little sunshine!!

By the way, YOU look fabulous today:)

Heroes

2009-09-11T15:22:00.000-04:00

WE WILL NEVER FORGET

On this day of remembrance, I'd first like to honor a very special person who blessed my life in many ways. My cousin, Billy, was killed in the line of duty on January 2, 1990. Click Here to view his "Officer Down Memorial Page" He was just shy of his 24th birthday. This hero lives on in our hearts.

I've been struggling all day to come up with a post that would be meaningful. Searching for a way to honor and thank those who put their lives on the line for us. On the eighth anniversary of the day that our great nation was brought to its knees, words just seem insignificant.

In true hero fashion, the local boys showed up just in time! They didn't seem to mind having a crazy lady ask to take their picture in the middle of a parking lot. Thanks for being such good sports, guys! Here's a GREAT BIG THANK YOU for all that you do to serve our community! May God richly bless each and every one of you.

Just Yesterday...

2009-09-08T16:35:00.002-04:00

...my baby was graduating from Pre-School.

(1997)

Today...

...is her last "First Day" of High School.

(2009)

Oddly enough, I have not aged a bit! Bwahahahahaha!

Forever Friends

2009-08-28T15:29:00.000-04:00

Jen and I were BFF's in High School. I married young, and she moved to California. She and I, along with another good friend, organized our 25th Class Reunion this year. The time we spent together planning the big event made us realize how much we had missed each other. We are both now kicking ourselves for letting those years slip away, but are thrilled at the possibilities that await!

Back Far Left: BHE, Front Far Right: Jen (Circa 1982)

20th High School Reunion (2004)

25th High School Reunion (2009)

Do you have a forever friend?

Yo, Mama!!

2009-08-24T16:31:00.005-04:00

What do Bloggers do when one of their own is sad because her children are flying the coop? They come to the rescue, that's what they do.

And~~drink~~ RESCUE we did!

Mental P Mama was scheduled to drop off Baby Bird last Saturday, so a few of us put our ~~one combined brain~~ heads together and decided to surprise her. We agreed to meet at an Italian joint, which would ensure plenty of wine would be available to drown her sorrows. She thought it was going to be BHE, Party of Two. Bwahahaha! NOPE! Blisters, Party of Six;)

Mom x 2 buttered up the waiter so we could get ~~lots of leftovers~~ great service...

A very surprised Guest of Honor arrived to find the party was well under way...

Party of Six....Bottom to Top: Bay Man, Chesapeake Bay Woman, Mental P Mama, Mom x 2, BHE & Cool Breeze...

The Gang, finally calling it a night...

The Virginia Guys & Gals are missin' you, Mama! How's Oyster Festival looking?

You're ALL invited! Check it out here: Urbanna Oyster Festival.

Welcome Home Snow White!

2009-08-19T15:51:00.002-04:00

My baby has been in Texas since last Friday. Today she flies back to the nest. It's been a long week without her. I'm SO not ready for the college years...

**Hugs for Mental P Mama**

Be Thankful

2009-08-14T12:12:00.001-04:00

There are SO many things in life that I take for granted. I go about my busy days, hardly noticing my surroundings or the people that surround me. I'm constantly worrying about the next task at hand, the meeting tomorrow night, or Snow White's work schedule. Sadly, it takes something drastic to "shake me up" and force me to focus on what is truly important.

We have been preparing all week for Snow White's departure. Cool Breeze took her to the airport very early this morning, and put her on a plane bound for Texas. Alone. Over the next few days, I will be worried sick about her safety, her eating habits, and whether or not she wore her retainer. I know she will fly back home next week armed with hundreds of photographs, and hundreds of stories to accompany them. In the mean time, I am trying to be thankful that I have a healthy, confident teenager, who is not afraid of an adventure!

While I am at home worrying about what "might" happen while my daughter is away, I have two friends who are now dealing with what "IS" happening. Thanks to Facebook, I know that there are two families out there who are dealing with the possible loss of a beloved family pet. Please understand that I am NOT comparing the lives of our pets to the lives of our children. I am just pointing out that this is one of those things that pulls at my heart strings. I have lost pets before, and it's something I never fully get over. Yes, I move on, but those critters continue to hold a special place in the family memory book.

Last night I was complaining about the black dog hair that carpets my tile floors. I am SO tired of running the vacuum, only to see the floor covered once again within the hour. No amount of brushing seems to prevent this. After I had whined on about it, I went out to check FB. Two friends, two emergency vet visits, two dogs who may not make it through the night. One little gal had five obstructions in her intestines, had lived through surgery, and was suffering from an abnormally low body temperature. The big strong guy had a heat stroke, was bleeding internally, and was on doggie life support. I sat at the computer and cried. Then, I went in and petted my big old mutt and told him I loved him....hair and all.

Attitude adjusted. I am thankful.

UPDATE: This was just posted on my friend Jeremy's FB page:

"Look Mommy, it's Hunter...." "No, sweetheart, that dog's name is not Hunter." "Yes, Mommy. I know that dog, and it IS Hunter."

-Unknown child at Belle Isle touched by the spirit of an unparalleled animal. He was my best friend.

Another Bumper Sticker

2009-08-11T22:33:00.002-04:00

I spotted this bumper sticker on the way home from work tonight:

"Tree Hugging Dirt Lover"

I kinda like it...;)

The Cookbook

2009-08-08T16:25:00.002-04:00

Last week I posted a meme of "3 Things..." One of the things I said I wanted to do before I die is write a cookbook. With much encouragement from Bloggyland, I've decided to just START the darn thing! I will never know if it's possible if I don't try. Right? Even if it never materializes, I will enjoy the journey:)

What I'd like to do is write a cookbook comprised of recipes that YOU contribute. I'm thinking about having an intro/photo of each contributor, along with a shameless blog-plug, if you wish. My goal would be to meet each one of you IRL so I could include how/when we met, and a photo of us making your fabulous signature dish!

Here's where I need YOUR help. What should the cookbook be called? What sort of format do you look for when selecting a cookbook? What type of cover art attracts you? Are you still reading, or did I lose you at "Last week..."?

That's about as far as I've gotten. Perhaps we can put this thing together when we are all gathered for the filming of the Blog Fest movie. Just a thought!

What do you think?

3 Things

2009-08-05T14:42:00.000-04:00

Photo borrowed from this site.

The well is dry today, so I borrowed this from my friend over at The Vinyl Village. I took liberty with the format, but the content is the same.

1. What 3 words best describe you?

Loyal

Outgoing

Non-Athletic

2. What 3 words best describe your life?

Hectic

Ordinary

Fulfilling

3. What are your top 3 guilty pleasures?

"Real Housewives" Shows

Eye Candy

Cute Tote Bags

4. What 3 places would you like to visit before you die?

Alaska

Hawaii

Greece

5. What 3 things would you like to do before you die?

Retire & Travel

Bake Cookies with my Grandchildren

Write a Cookbook

6. If your life were ending, what 3 to 5 "flashes" would sum it up?

Childhood Summers at my Grandparents' Farm

Family Christmas Gatherings

My Wedding Day

The Day Snow White was Born

The Pets I've Owned

The Home in Which I Now Live

Fall? Really?

2009-08-03T15:33:00.000-04:00

As much as I hate to admit it, signs are beginning to point to Fall. Poplar leaves have begun to scatter about the yard, Halloween and ~~GASP~~ Christmas items are being placed on store shelves, and the calendar says that "August" has arrived. I'm still in denial.

Last Friday, Snow White's boyfriend headed off to begin his college career in the great state of Texas! He will definitely be missed.....and not just by Snow White! The Boy With The Perfect Teeth has a bright future ahead of him, and the determination to succeed. We are looking forward to his visit over the Thanksgiving holiday! There WILL be lime squares:)

My beautiful mom had a birthday on Saturday. We celebrated with a Girls' Brunch Out at Strawberry Street Cafe in Richmond. Mom x 2, Cheerleader Girl & Mom x 2's Mom rounded out our party of six. Three generations of two different families.....that's good stuff!!

It's not often that Mom, Snow White and I are all together. When we are, we certainly try to make the most of it!!

This doe and her two fawns showed up in the yard over the weekend. I believe that you can see the spots on the fawns if you enlarge the photo. Where was Asthma Girl's camera when I needed it??!! My little point and shoot doesn't take very good pictures at 321,452,881 yards.

Finally, these ~~phallic~~ odd mushrooms keep sprouting up all over the yard. Hmmmm...

(Insert clever comment. I got nothin'!!)

Fall. It will be here before we know it. **sigh**